Kochi Corporation to Develop Cloud Kitchen for Indira Canteens

The Kochi Corporation is exploring the possibility of developing a business model for running a cloud kitchen to supply food to new Indira Canteen units likely to be opened by other United Democratic Front-led local bodies in Ernakulam district. Municipalities such as Thrikkakara and Kalamassery have already expressed interest in the project.

The cloud kitchen, to be set up in Edappally, will cater to both Samridhi and Indira Canteen, providing jobs to more Kudumbashree members and serving as a revenue stream for Kochi Corporation, according to Mayor V.K. Minimol.

The existing Indira Canteen, which has been operational for nearly two months, has reportedly proved viable through cross-subsidy, with the loss of around ₹8 lakh from serving budget meals offset through the sale of value-added products and specials.

The Kochi Corporation plans to further bridge the gap by mobilising resources through corporate social responsibility funds and seeking a subsidy from the new UDF State Government. The next Indira Canteen will be launched in Mattancherry, with new units considered only after monitoring the operations of the maiden canteen for three months.